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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of A Written Contract in Alabama?

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 6 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-34.

6 YEARS
Written Contract · Alabama
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in Alabama

How long do you have to file a breach of a written contract claim in Alabama?

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 6 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-34.

When does the clock start for breach of a written contract in Alabama?

Six years from breach on a written contract.

Can the Alabama deadline for breach of a written contract be extended?

Contracts under seal run ten years under § 6-2-33. Open accounts run only three years under § 6-2-37. The gravamen test decides whether a claim arising from a contract is really a two-year tort.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Alabama?

Often, yes. Sworn claim to a municipality within 6 months under Ala. Code §§ 11-47-23, 11-47-192. Alabama requires claims against a municipality to be presented within six months of accrual under § 11-47-23, and personal injury claims within six months under § 11-47-192. Counties have their own presentment rules. These sit on top of the ordinary limitation…

How does Alabama compare to other states for breach of a written contract?

Alabama's 6 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 49 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for breach of a written contract ranges from 3 years to 10 years, and 6 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Written Contract Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the breach of a written contract deadline in Alabama:

01 Breach of a signed business agreement
02 Non-payment under a service contract
03 Broken lease or purchase agreements
04 Failure to deliver goods as contracted
05 Breach of a settlement agreement
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Other Filing Deadlines in Alabama

Statutes of limitations have exceptions, and courts apply them to specific facts. This page states the general rule. A licensed Alabama attorney can tell you the deadline that applies to your situation.
See every filing deadline in Alabama, or compare breach of a written contract across all states.
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